Last Updated on Friday, 17 February 2012 04:19 Posted by Home Cure Friday, 17 February 2012 04:19

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It’s normal to feel anxious or panicky at times. Sometimes it leads to seeking out comfort food or “stress eating.”
But there are better approaches out there in dealing with stress. According to nutritionist Lara Field, when it comes to stress management, your goal is simple: Eat a balanced, healthy diet all the time, no matter the ups and downs in life. After all, when you’re at ease, you look and feel better.

Ms. Field recommends following a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables that are filled with vitamins, fiber and phytochemicals (naturally occurring compounds that are found in plants which may affect health), and we are here to help you take a step in the right direction.

Get a Taste Of Greek Yogurt
It’s a great source of probiotics (live and active cultures that have been shown to assist in boosting immune system and preventing the growth of bad bacteria that can lead to infection). Greek Yogurt is rich in calcium and high in potassium, which are directly linked to elevating your mood. Top with berries for a bonus antioxidant boost!

Say Hello to Whole Grains
Not all carbohydrates are bad. We still do not like white-flour-based products. But we embrace the variety that is whole grain such as brown rice or whole wheat pasta. Unlike the white types out there (bread, sugar, potatoes, pasta), whole grain carbs can actually raise serotonin — which you need to help avoid panic, anxiety and depression. They also are filled with folate, which is linked to an increase in happiness and joy. Field’s tip: Make yourself an open-faced sandwich with vitamin-rich veggies and cheese (to add protein and calcium) as an afternoon snack.

Eggs Are Your Friends
Eggs can help to reduce stress and prevent panic. Eggs are rich in vitamins D and B-12, both of which work to help elevate your mood, along with protein.  Field advises poached eggs on whole grain toast as a great, go-to breakfast before a busy, long day; on weekends, try adding salmon for health bonus points.

Get a Taste for the East With Green Tea
Green tea offers a much-needed caffeine boost, but won’t give you the jitters. It also works as an anti-inflammatory to reduce any tension or anxiety. Studies show that two cups a day may reduce your risk of certain cancers, too. Iced or hot, this tea is super-soothing and, potentially, slimming as well.

Get a Healthy Dose of Omegas
Walnuts, Flax seeds and Salmon are considered super foods according to Field. Omegas are fatty acids which help skin to look plumper, smoother and more hydrated, and help your body, in general, function better.  These foods hyrdate from within, helping your complexion glow, your skin to chap less easily and be less prone to fine lines and wrinkles.

Show Me the Light with Vitamin E
Did you know that vitamin E is known to heal and soothe when applied topically? Looks like we do learn something new every day. But it also works, when ingested, to protect skin cells from free radical damage and UV light. Thus, eating Vitamin E-enriched foods is one great way to keep cancer, infection and illness at bay. Keeping you healthy means a calmer, less worried and a less stressed out you. Find large amounts of E in almond, avocado and spinach. Field’s favorite combo: Brown rice sushi that contains avocado, spinach and salmon.

So there you go! A list of 6 food types to make your day less stressful. Now only if there was a way to reduce the number of emails we get each day.